VizSense - Blog - VizSense Vizionary: Crystal Castillo

How did you find the inspiration to start your page and take the leap as a content creator?

I happened to find myself surrounded by a ton of amazing content creators in the natural hair community. One day, a friend mentioned that I share a ton of great tips and tricks and that I should try it! It came naturally and easily as I continue to do what I've always done... put my gals (and gents) on!

What is your overall inspiration for your posts and Instagram feed?

Lately, I've gotten inspiration from my surroundings. Working from home has forced me to be a lot more creative and also look at content I previously deemed as "unworthy" for my feed. Finding beauty in everything I've captured especially my moments in nature and while traveling.

How did you get your first brand sponsorship, and who was it with?

My first official officiallllllll sponsorship was with Seven Daughters Wine. To tell you the truth, I don't know what drew them to my page... maybe because I do love me a gooodddd wine! It was an 8-month brand partnership that I absolutely enjoyed. As my first collab, I was able to explore my creative side, really dive into fun content, and challenge myself.

What are the biggest lessons you’ve learned working for yourself and creating your own personal brand?

Stay. True. To. Who. TF. You. Are
Be vulnerable.
Everything you create is worthy!

I think a lot of people tend to lose these as they continue to grow their personal brand. We start to tailor who we are to what we THINK people want to see. I've learned, very recently, that you come first. The followers, the genuine ones, will always support and help you grow.

What is your favorite part of being a content creator?

I LOVE when a follower hits me up and shares how they loved my recommendations. It makes my soul warm to know that the products I am passionate about, worked for them too! Additionally, I love getting to be a voice for my community. I am still learning how to do this but I absolutely value this.

What do you wish people knew about influencers?

I personally have two views about the influencers... some are incredibly unreal. Colorless/dull and don't give back to their community. I wish people could see those "influencers" as to what they really are. But most are incredible in a term I coined #ActuallyInfluencing. Using their platform to put their followers not only on to dope products, services, and events, but discussions about the world, community, and what is trending. I aspire to be that bomb. I wish more people would look beyond a pretty and absolutely stunning photo and really get to learn the depths of some of the micro-influencers who don't get enough clout.

Where do you see yourself, as well as the industry, within the next few years?

While I will always and forever share my favs with my following, I see myself really becoming the leader in #ActuallyInfluencing movement. I am currently working on a really dope project *shameless plug* and can't wait to share it with everyone. I want to use my influence to really move people and gather dope people to do dope things -- such as, giving back to the community in various ways like raising money, educational workshops, and more!

What is the best piece of advice you have for people who want to build their own social media brand and get started in the industry?

Remain true to thyself and network! You should always want to meet like-minded creatives. They fuel and challenge you in amazing ways!